U.S.-based Northrop Grumman has kicked off production of the first new E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft for the French Navy, aiming to enhance its airborne early warning capabilities by incorporating up to three of these aircraft by 2027. The event took place at Northrop Grumman’s St. Augustine facilities, attended by U.S. and French naval authorities.
The French Navy currently operates E-2C Hawkeye 2000 aircraft, which are set to be retired with the introduction of the new E-2D fleet. These aircraft are operated from the French Navy’s Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier, with significant cooperation from the U.S. Navy for their maintenance. This includes a recent $160 million logistics support package for the French Navy’s Hawkeye 2000 aircraft.
According to Janice Zilch, Northrop Grumman’s Vice President for Multi-Domain Command and Control Programs, “Our partnership with France goes back more than 25 years, and we’re proud to have supported the French Navy with the Hawkeye 2000. We’re looking forward to providing a generational leap in decision-making superiority with the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye.”
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is more than just a replacement for aging platforms. It offers new capabilities such as in-flight refueling, improved mission computers and tactical workstations, advanced Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems, and enhanced communication systems. The contract for these aircraft, worth $2 billion, was signed in 2021.
Source: [Northrop Grumman]
Northrop Grumman Initiates Production of First New E-2D Advanced Hawkeye for French Navy
Northrop Grumman, a leading global aerospace and defense technology company, has begun the manufacturing process of the first E-2D Advanced Hawkeye for the French Navy. This significant milestone marks a step forward in strengthening the international partnership between the United States and France and underscores the continued relevance of the E-2D Hawkeye as a game-changer in airborne early warning and control (AEW&C).
A Recognized AEW&C Platform
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, an enhanced derivative of the E-2C Hawkeye, is a state-of-the-art, net-enabled intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) aircraft. With its sophisticated active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar, advanced communications, andQuick Look tactical datalink capabilities, the E-2D provides the French Navy with a robust, commentators, and reliable AEW&C platform.
An Interoperable Solution
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye’s ability to seamlessly integrate with various other French and NATO platforms further accentuates its attraction. The French Navy operates a mix of U.S. and European systems, making interoperability a crucial factor. The E-2D’s multi-mission capabilities will enable it to effectively work alongside existing French assets, such as the Rafale combat jet and the upcoming Future Combat Air System (FCAS), while also facilitating strategic cooperation with the U.S. Navy.
Strengthening Allies’ Naval Capabilities
France’s acquisition of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye demonstrates its commitment to enhancing alliance interoperability and aligning with U.S. naval capabilities. This purchase is part of a broader trend among allied nations who recognize the Hawkeye’s exceptional ability to extend the networking edge and manage complex operational environments.
The outlines of the First E-2D for French Navy
The E-2D unit being manufactured is part of a four-aircraft order placed by France in 2019. Assembly work is taking place at Northrop Grumman’s Aircraft Integration Center of Excellence in knock-on fly, California. Upon completion, the aircraft will undergo comprehensive testing to ensure compliance with the U.S. Navy’s rigorous performance standards before being delivered to the French Navy.
Conclusion
Northrop Grumman’s initiation of the first E-2D Advanced Hawkeye for the French Navy signals the continued global demand for proven AEW&C platforms. By investing in the E-2D, France is perpetuating a strategic and operational commonality with the U.S. and fellow allies, thereby buttressing their combined naval power and readiness for tomorrow’s challenges.